Moving a yacht to a new cruising ground can feel like a big undertaking. This guide covers the basics of yacht shipping and what happens at each stage, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
The more complex elements, such as customs clearance, port handling, health and safety requirements and anything specific to your route, will be covered by the Peters & May sales representative handling your booking.
Before loading
The basic principle is to prepare your yacht as if she were going to sea. In a sense she is, even though you are not going with her. Make her as light and as secure as possible, and work through our A–Z checklist for the full detail.
Remove, secure and lock. Stow anything loose on board or on deck that could shift in transit, then close and lock hatches, lockers, portholes and doors.
On the day of loading
Depending on your booking, you or your representative will deliver the yacht to a pre-agreed location for lifting. From there, the operation follows the same steps every time.
Arrive and come alongside
If arriving by water, contact the Peters & May loadmaster or assigned liaison officer to confirm the berth or ship location and where to come alongside.
Prepare the rig
Backstays, topping lifts and triatic stays need loosening before the lift. Know how to disconnect and re-tighten them and have the right tools to hand. Stays not prepared in advance will incur a delay charge.
Sling and lift
Lifting gear is positioned over the yacht, the loadmaster boards and a diver enters the water to check positioning and slinging. Once everyone is satisfied, she is lifted and offered up to the cradle.
Cradle and lash
Final adjustments are made before she is settled and released from the crane, then lashed to the cradle or deck using cleats, bollards and similar points. These loads are slightly greater than normal mooring or anchoring, so check your fittings are sound before shipment.
Handing over the yacht
Once she is settled and secured, take fenders and warps aboard and stow them. Go through the A–Z checklist one final time.
- Report and photograph any incidents during loading.
- Leave the keys on board somewhere secure, and tell the attending surveyor where they are.
Once the ship has sailed, you will receive an estimated time of arrival. Weather and other factors outside our control can cause delays, and we will keep you updated throughout.
On arrival
If you or your representative are receiving the yacht, you will be told where to go and how to access the vessel safely to take delivery. We can also help source a local skipper; ask your sales representative for details.
Before discharge, make sure everything you need is in place and that you have the keys, so you can leave promptly once she is offloaded and the loadmaster confirms you are clear.
Discharge at anchor carries more risk. Do not stay alongside longer than needed, and leave as soon as the loadmaster gives the all-clear.
The role of our loadmasters
Our loadmasters run the loading and discharge of your yacht around the world. They work alongside port staff and stevedores, and have the experience to judge when an operation can go ahead safely. Throughout, they stay in close contact with our technical department.
- Preparing all loading and discharge equipment
- Overseeing and managing every loading and discharge operation
- Coordinating third parties, including divers and the ship’s crew
- Acting as your point of contact on the day
- Designing bespoke lifting gear and cradling solutions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to cover my yacht?
It is not essential, but it can be arranged. Timing, weather, the loading and discharge ports and hull material all affect whether it is worthwhile, and your sales representative can talk you through it.
What about cradles?
We hold a wide range of tried and tested shipping cradles for all shapes and sizes of yacht. A boatyard cradle is not built for the pitch and roll of a ship’s deck, so your own cradle will need approval from our technical team. Custom or unusual yachts are likely to need specialist cradling, and we are happy to advise.
How do I measure my yacht?
Shipping is priced and planned on length, beam, height and weight, so accuracy matters. Include anything that protrudes, such as davits, aerials, radar arches and pulpits. Incorrect dimensions can lead to extra charges or the yacht not shipping, so flag anything unusual about lifting points early.
What about customs?
Requirements vary by yacht and by country, and mistakes can be costly. With the right preparation it is straightforward, and our customs team will guide you through each step. See VAT, customs & documentation.
Will my normal yacht insurance cover the transport?
Usually not. Annual hull insurance generally covers normal boating only, not sea or road transport. Marine cargo insurance covers the shipment and we can quote for it separately. Use the total value plus freight costs when requesting rates, and tell your insurer about the move so your cover stays active in your new cruising ground.